Parabens are synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
They are effective as preservatives and are used or their anti-fungal and anti-bacterial.
You will find them in a broad assortment of personal care products including shampoos, shaving gels, facial creams, spray-on skin care products, and pharmaceutical creams.
Parabens have prefixes such as methyl, ethyl, propyl or butyl, depending on the type of alcohol they are formulated with.
Products that are paraben free commonly include other kinds of preservatives including grape seed extract or natural Vitamin E to prevent the growth of bacteria or fungus.
Because parabens may be responsible for certain health issues, people that are concerned about safeguarding their overall health and wellness should avoid these chemicals and seek out products with effective and safer alternatives.
The primary health concern of parabens is that they mimic estrogen.
In large doses, parabens can affect the concentration of hormones in blood.
Because these synthetic chemicals are present in a high number of different consumer products, the risk of exposure can be substantial.
Parabens can be absorbed through the skin and stored in body tissues.
Once parabens are in the body, they perform similar to estrogen, a hormone that promotes cell division.
Many European countries restrict the amounts of parabens that are allowed in certain consumer products; they are not regulated in the United States.
Numerous skin care products manufactured in the United States use parabens to extend the shelf life of a product.
A fundamental premise of proper skin care is to avoid substances that can cause allergic reactions, irritation or a greater risk of health issues.
Companies that promote safety and health do not use parabens in their products.
There are no acceptable reasons to use paraben containing products, particularly when there are safer alternatives.